Education

The coalition provides education and resources about substance abuse and prevention to Vernon youth and parents through schools and other local groups and at community events, and plans to provide prevention training to personnel who work with youth.

Real Talk Vernon: Real Talk Vernon is a campaign created by Rockville High School students to educate their parents and peers about the dangers of underage drinking. For more information about the campaign, visit our Real Talk page.

Community Events: Vernon ROCKS sets up resource tables at community events to provide education to the community about substance abuse and prevention strategies. Vernon ROCKS participates in several annual events including resource fairs, National Night Out, and the Greater Vernon Holistic Health Fest. Vernon ROCKS also holds an annual Community Block Party to kick-off National Prevention Week in May.

Narcan Training: Narcan is naloxone in the form of a nasal spray, used to treat an opioid overdose. It can be used by first responders, family, friends, or caregivers. Narcan is not a substitute for medical care and you should always call for help immediately. You can find Narcan at your local pharmacy, at Narcan trainings, and it can also be administered by emergency medical services and law enforcement officials. For more information about Narcan, visit our Narcan page.

Hidden in Plain Sight: “Hidden in Plain Sight” is a demonstration that sets up a mock teen bedroom with products that teens use to hide alcohol and other drugs that look like everyday items. This demonstration challenges parents to try to find these items and gives parents guidance on how to talk to their children if they do find something. To view more information about Vernon ROCKS’ most recent demonstration of “Hidden in Plain Sight” view the event here.

Real Talk Members present campaign to Town Council

National Night Out 2018

Rockville High School Open House 2018

Hidden in Plain Sight at Vernon Opioid Forum

Unfortunately, sexual minorities often face social stigma, discrimination, and other challenges like violence and harassment, not experienced by those who identify as heterosexual. These challenges mixed with other stressors lead sexual minorities to be at an increased risk for substance use. According to SAMHSA, substance use disorders affect 20 to 30% of the LGBTQIA+ population, compared to 8.4% of the general population. People who identify as gay and lesbian are more than twice as likely as those who identify as heterosexual to have a severe alcohol or tobacco use disorder. That number raises to three times as likely for people who identify as bisexual, and five times as likely for people who are unsure how to identify their sexuality (National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2017). The Vernon ROCKS Coalition wants everyone to know there are supportive people, and resources to help and you are not alone. We stand in solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community. Visit our website for more information. www.vernonrocksct.org/pride-month/... See MoreSee Less